The death of Olphert Stanfield

March 13, 1952
A well-known figure in football circles, and former Irish international, Mr. Olphert Martin Stanfield (Olphy Stanfield), died in the City Hospital, Belfast, on Thursday night at the age of 83.

Mr. Stanfield, who resided with his niece at Wandsworth Crescent was associated with Distillery for almost 70 years as a player and an official.

Thirty Irish international caps were acquired by him, one less than the record held by Elisha Scott, the Belfast Celtic manager.

In the Welsh international of 1891, played at Ulsterville, when Ireland won 7-2, he scored five of the goals.

Mr. Stanfield had in his playing days a number of tempting offers to cross the Channel. He signed for Notts County, receiving £100 down, wages of £4 10s. per week, with the arrangements that he start business in an accountant’s office to work four days per week, with £2 salary. He decided, however, not to leave Ireland and returned the £100.

In the following year he was offered by Notts his own terms to play four matches at the end of the season to try to help them to retain their position in the League. He refused that offer too.